COMIC BOOK FAMILIES

Here in Canada (well, most parts) it is "Family Day". A day off to spend with of course, your family. And for those who do not, simply a day off (or a day to reminisce). Families can come in various forms. From straight forward blood relation, to families built on not blood, but on the foundation of love and respect. In comic books, it is all the above but taken to another level. Some fighting along side their family members, and others fighting against their families. In the spirit of the day, here are some of the families from within the pages of our favorite comic books...

The Bat Family

With the exception of Bruce and Damian, there is no blood relation amongst this family. Instead it is built on love, respect, and understanding. Like any family, there are bumps in the road, but they always push through and grow tighter.

X-Men

They practically cover all the different aspects. There is of course the team in itself, a family of mutants who've come together and developed into a family. There are blood-related families within the family as well. The Summers family (with Cyclops, Jean Grey, Cable, Havok, etc), Magneto and his clan whom are a mix heroes, villains, and a mix of both.

The House Of El

Superman, Supergirl, technically Superboy (is a clone of two people blood related to the people who were cloned? hmmmmm). Of course there are those who came before them in Jor El and Lara El (Supes parents). Zor El and Alura In-Ze (Supergirl's parents) too. And thanks to multiverses, Superboy, Power Girl, amongst others fit in here as well.

The Grimes Family

Went with Rick, Lori, Carl, and Judith as really almost any group in The Walking Dead could be listed as a family. Even though sadly, this family is down to only two.


Families are everywhere, and there are many more that could be listed. Even creators like The Kubert or Romita families. In a sense comic book fans world wide. Sure we argue and bicker, but that's what families do, and ask yourself who else is there to talk about comic books? On any level? Non-fans at any age will ignore us or blankly stare as they indulge us. Think of "Trolls" as that annoying cousin nobody likes who's just looking to mess with you. But try to be nice. Okay, lame sappiness out of the way. Enjoy that day off! With family or not.

For more Comic Book, Movie, TV Show, Video Game, and Wrestling stuff! Head on over to Non-Geeky Nerd and check things out! Stay Nerdy!

DEATH OF WOLVERINE, A DISAPPOINTMENT OR PERFECTLY PLANNED?

SPOILER ALERT! YOU'VE BEEN WARNED!
It is somewhat difficult to get off of the fence on this one. There is an almost perfect balance of good and bad in the 4-part series, "Death Of Wolverine". The story was very good, allowing readers to be able to jump in without having to really read any of the build up. Being a mainly DC Comics reader, this was key. The art work on the series was near flawless, telling the story and allowing readers to get a feel for Logan as he approached his "end". However, that is where the problems somewhat begin, the end. Visually it was amazing, and could make for a decent statue in the future for collectors to purchase. Wolverine covered in liquid adamantium as it hardens leaving him a human/mutant statue. On the literary end of things, it felt a bit "weak". How could they have him go out like that? A character like Wolverine, although has had depth added to his character over the years, would have been better suited to go out in a bloodbath. Yes, the character has had depth added to him, but the core is still a viscous animal. It is also, almost too easy for the ol' Canucklehead to make a return.

Perhaps that was the point. Nobody expects any character to stay dead, especially one of the top money makers in the industry. Was this is simply another "What If...?" type scenario, done to cash in but also to simply get it out of the way so to speak? The multitude of varian
t covers would suggest that, but hard to blame them as well, as who's there left to kill? Get it done, since it is going to happen, and then move onto better things. Although I hear the follow up "Death Of Wolverine: Logan's Legacy" is where the real story is, but is there really a story to be told? "Fatal Attractions" made for a good, temporary story after the fact. Wolverine without adamantium was a great idea, but was temporary as bone claws only go so far, when a character is known for the metal. Sure, there has been depth added to the character over the years, and there were obvious connections made. Both good and bad ones, but was there anything to carry an entire story arc?

Guess we'll find out in the pages of "Death Of Wolverine: Logan's Legacy". Here is hoping that the story makes up for a slightly weak ending in "Death Of Wolverine" (which again was great on the visual side of things). Also, here's to a speedy return for Wolverine, hopefully not too damaged from where we last see him before his path to his adamantium, statuesque end.

For more Comic Books, Movies, TV Shows, Video Games, and Wrestling! Head on over to Non-Geeky Nerd and check things out! Stay Nerdy!

DEATH OF A LEGEND

Although I tend to me more of a DC Comics guy, I have a soft spot for Marvel. It was due to there being only Marvel available in the area I lived for a period as a child. Marvel filled the void for me with mainly X-titles, so "Death Of Wolverine" intrigued me. Call me a fanboy, or what have you but Wolvie is my all-time favorite Marvel character. He moves ahead of fellow mutie, Cable, for being a fellow Canuck. And if having his adamantium ripped off his bones by Magneto during the Fatal Attractions story arc didn't kill him, what could possibly do the trick?

Now none of us can believe that this 4-part series is something that will last, with Logan being one of (if not the) top money makers. But, one can't help but wonder how they would kill off the character who is almost immortal. I haven't heard it, but Marvel would have been smart to outright say, this is almost a "What if...?" type deal. Sure the result of this story could lead to something bigger, perhaps a new path for Wolverine. Perhaps not. Regardless, we have a Wolverine sans his healing ability. Popping his claws is killing him. And the world is against him. One can't help but be interested in how he goes down. It's not whether or not it will be bloody, it is a matter of just how red things will get. With so many enemies out there, who will be trying to take Logan down? And will we see the ol' Canucklehead take some of these people out with him? First issue was a good lead in, explains the limitations Wolverine has while his last hope lies with Reed Richards aka Mr. Fantastic trying to figure out how to restart his healing factor. The art work was top notch. But, if I am being honest, my favorite part of the first installment, was the Len Wein interview in the back. It was nice to see how Wolverine came to be, starting with a name and developing into what we see in his first appearance in The Incredible Hulk #180/181. Then evolving over time into the character we know and love today. Didn't even realize Wolvie is celebrating his 40th Anniversary this year.

Although my favorite part was the extras in the back of the issue, I am very much looking forward to how this story plays out. Especially with Viper and Sabertooth on deck for the 2nd installment. Again, not a matter of there being blood shed, especially with Creed in the picture, it is a matter of how much. Can't wait!

For more Comic Book, Movie, TV Shows, Video Game, and Wrestling stuff! Head on over to Non-Geeky Nerd and check things out! Stay Nerdy!

STYLE SAVANTS ENTRY #1: CYCLOPS

Just like the stories that give them meaning, the style and look of a character are also ever evolving. Whether it is "keeping with the times" or simply a different artists take on the character, the visuals and a characters costumes can at times tell us things about the person or their part in the story without needing the words to so. From simple things to slightly deeper things, that if not tell us outright, at least have us wondering "why".
For some characters, even a very basic change in their usual color scheme adds almost a new dynamic to them. Haven't read, but I could tell that the black and greys in the more modern X-Force in characters like Wolverine and Deadpool meant it was a stealthy, tactical team aka sneak in and conquer (may be wrong, but feel free to correct me on that in the comments box below, or on the Facebook postings comment box that brought you here. Helps me learn!)

So, decided to try and cover characters that likely have massive wardrobes in their homes to hold all of the different looks that they have had over the years. Instead of just one massive list, figured maybe to do more of a focus on each "Style Savant", for if anything, to show some of their various looks.

The first entry in "Style Savants" is...

Scott Summers aka Cyclops

If Scotty was created today, it would almost be safe to say he would be a more similar to say "Barnie Stinson" from the television series "How I Met Your Mother" based on his wide selection of....wait for it.....suits. Okay, perhaps he would still be the bland, boy scout, leader he has always been, but he has a knack for evolving his look, but perhaps that is from being basically "stuck" wearing that visor and red shades. But he's made it work, people talk about Punisher being man enough to pull off white disco boots, check out Slim rocking the disco boots in both white and yellow.

His look hasn't changed too much with really his styles consisting of "hooded" and "un-hooded" and the trademark visor staying the same mainly. The 1990's saw him go with a more "tactical" approach adding his version of Batman's utility belt, minus the endless gadgets, but we know he's ready to lead his teams into battle. And speaking of Batman, anyone else get the "Nightwing" vibe from one of Cyclops' newer suits? As for his movie costumes, generally no evolution, but that all seemed to help make the X-films work. His visor in the movie  universe wasn't too bad, but would be nice to see not only a return, but when he does a newer more interesting take on his wardrobe.

Well, that was the first entry in "Style Savants". Thanks for taking the time to read and take a look. Feel free to mention any of Cyclops' looks or costumes that may have been missed. His "Slim" look from him and Jean Grey's (Redd) honeymoon would be one of them, but couldn't find an image. And of course there is the animated styles, but, trying to stay closer to what has appeared within the comic books and a touching on what has appeared within the live action film and television appearances. Keep them peeled for future installments of "Style Savants" where we will take a look at the various looks and costumes of other comic book characters.

Stay Nerdy!

COMIC BOOK FAMILIES

In Canada it is "Family Day"! Us Canucks don't get how this is a holiday either, but it's a day off, so the people will take it, and most do spend the time with family or close friends. Comic books of course are loaded with families and characters that are related, whether it be by blood or by bond. This includes the talent that bring these characters to life in every panel and page.
With a mixture of both comic book characters, and the people who bring them to life (artists, writers) here is a list of some of the family dynasties within the comic book universes...

The Summers Family

One of Marvel's comic book families. Members include Scott Summers/Cyclops, his brother Alex Summers/Havok, their father Major Christopher Summers/Corsair, Scott's children (from the future but not) Nathan Summers/Cable and Rachel Summers/Phoenix. Then there is Cable's son, Tyler. And don't forget about Jean Grey aka Marvel Girl aka Phoenix who is Scott's wife and mother of his children (Cable's mother was a clone of Jean, so same thing really).

The Wayne Family

Not to forget the great bloodline that Bruce Wayne comes from, but it is the family he's built since dawning the cape and cowl that we are referring too. Family is more than blood. Batman (Bruce Wayne) and all of his sons both adopted, foster or birth, Nightwing (Richard Grayson), Red Hood (Jason Todd), Red Robin (Tim Drake) and Robin (Damian Wayne) have proven just that over the years. The relaunch has since added some family issues as of late (Joker's last appearance, Damian's current "death" status), but they pull through, or we're hoping they do. Oh, and Bruce possibly has a relative out there? Read "Batman: City Of Owls" if you have not.

The Eisenhardt Family

The size of and the members of this family vary from "earth" to "earth". Magneto is the patriarch of this dynasty, with his children Scarlet Witch and Quicksilver, his grandchildren Speed, Wiccan, Pavel Rasputin, etc. Former and possible "in-laws" include Vision, Doctor Doom, Crystal, etc. Magnetism, speed and magic. I do like how Magneto would have an advantage against the men his daughter brings home. Android and a man in a metal suit. They probably had her home by 11pm...a day early lol And I believe Polaris may also be an offspring of Magneto, which at times links the Eisenhardt and Summers families.

The Grimes Family

They are kind of the First Family Of The Zombie Apocalypse in The Walking Dead. Both in print and on screen. Of Rick, Lori, Carl and Judith Grimes, in both the comic book and television series, only two members remain. (and for the record, regardless of genetics, Rick is Judith's father).

The Kubert Family

A family of comic book artists, writers, and creators. The late great Joe Kubert, who's work and contributions to comic books is legendary gave us, greats in their own right, Adam and Andy Kubert. And they help pass on their knowledge within their family owned school, The Kubert School, which was founded by Joe who also taught there before passing, and carrying that on is both Adam and Andy.

The Richards Family

Best known members of this clan are Mr. Fantastic/Reed Richards, Invisible Woman/Sue Storm-Richards and their son, Franklin Richards, and of course Sue's brother, Human Torch/Johnny Storm. There is also Reed's father, like-wise super smart, former Agent of S.H.I.E.L.D., and also a time traveler, Nathaniel Richards.

The House Of El

Of course, there is Kal El/Clark Kent/Superman son of Jor El and Lara El. Kal's uncle from his fathers side, Zor El and his wife Alura In-Ze, whom are parents of Kara Zor El/Kara Kent/Supergirl. And regardless of which incarnation (there are many), whether clone or not there is Superboy, sometimes Kon El. Hopefully, there is a lawyer somewhere in this bloodline, with all the legal drama over the years. Although not Kryptonian, Martha & Jonathan Kent get honorary mentions for having raised Kal El. They did an okay job, I'd say.

The Romita Family

Legendary artist John Romita Sr, his wife Virginia Romita (apparently once long time Marvel Traffic Manager), and their also legendary son, John Romita Jr. Spider-Man. X-Men. Kick-Ass. And others to which we all say a collective "Thank you". Although primarily a "Marvel" family, John Jr. is coming over to DC Comics. Cannot wait for that.



Well, that's all for now. There are many, many more families both large and small within the comic book universes. Wouldn't be surprised to see a new baby pop up in The Walking Dead, with the last name Grimes. Or new babies in any of the titles across the publisher board. With the way they seem to "get around". Just saying. It may be "Family Day" in Canada, but in some cases a lot of families begin about 9months from now thanks to the very recently celebrated Valentine's Day.

Stay Nerdy!

THERE'S NOTHING TO IT, VOGUE!!! TOP 5 FASHIONISTA'S IN COMICS

As a person who loves the art and visual side of things in the world of comic books, movies, etc. I really like a variety in a characters wardrobe. Whether it be a simple modification (ie. Batman or Superman's logo) or a complete yet still identifiable rework (ie. Catwoman, etc) it keeps a character fresh, or at times can add to the story in which the costume is being used (ie. Original black Spider-Man costume, etc).

Here are the Non-Geeky Nerd's Top 5 favorite comic book Fashionista's....

5) Captain America
Cap' earned a spot mostly for his movie appearances for this one. There was the straight from the comic book style costume in 1990's Captain America. Which goes to show why straight from the page doesn't always work on the big screen. There was a taste of this in the beginning of "Captain America: The First Avenger (2011)" but received a very nice upgrade later on in the movie. His costume in "The Avengers (2012)" worked well with the tone of the movie, however by the looks of his newest duds in the upcoming "Captain America: Winter Soldier", things are getting even better.

4) Cyclops
Top of my head I can name 6 different costumes worn by Scott Summers, and that was just until the mid-1990's. After some quick looks across the world wide web, I see that Cyclops is still changing costumes with both the times and story-arcs. And it also must be a family thing as there are other members of the Summers family who have a knack for fashion....

 3) Cable
Cable changes looks so much he needed a clone to pull off some others. Now I know it's  mostly based on who is drawing him and that it is mainly his arsenal, but when you brings guns like he does, it is a fashion statement ahaha And like I mentioned in the #4 slot, seems to be a Summers family trend, Cable's father Cyclops, his step-mother Jean Grey (isn't she still technically his mom if it's her clone who is his mother?), and even his uncle Alex Summers aka Havok is a comic book Fashionista.

2) Spider-Man
Although he tends to stick  with his traditional blue and red costume, when Spidey changes up it is noticeable and most times is visually awesome. Even non-Peter Parker Spider-Men have wicked costumes. Spider-Man 2099 was not only the best of the 2099 stories, but that costume was fantastic. Even Spidey's simple Black is great. I always wondered how a white costume would look and I see they covered that in  a Future Foundation/Fantastic 4 run (looked amazing I must say). And love or hate the movies (either franchise), can't deny the costumes have been pretty on par.

1) Catwoman
From starting out with what is possibly Top 100 ugliest costumes, with a dress, cape and giant cat head, Catwoman has evolved and prospered ever since. There are many, many variations on the Catwoman costume through out comic books with both mainstay costumes (current New 52, etc) and different outfits for different storylines or alternate worlds (ie The Long Halloween, etc). Catwoman also has various looks in other medias. In television (animation) there is here classic "Batman: The Animated Series" outfits, as well as other animated appearances, even on the live-action 1960's television series, she had at least 2 different outfits. On the big screen, there has been 3 (4 if you included "Batman: The Movie (1966)") different costumes, personal favorite being the black vinyl in "Batman Returns (1992)" a la Michelle Pfeiffer. Meow.

Honorable mentions go to; Havok, Wolverine, Iron Man and the goddamn Batman.

Stay Nerdy!